5 WALKS YOU CAN'T MISS IN MADEIRA
Madeira is an island of many walks.
There are trips to the seashore, mountains, flower gardens, pebble beaches, forests and levadas. The mild climate invites you to go out any time of the year.
The landscapes are fascinating, and the flowers bring colour and beauty to each day.
Look for these magical places, and find yourself in pure nature.
We leave you with five walks you can't miss in Madeira.
1. Promenade do Lido to Câmara de Lobos
In Funchal, right in front of the resort Vila Porto Mare lies the Lido Promenade.
The lawn stretches out to the sea and indicates the beginning of this (1 hour and 30 minutes) walk. Go through areas with gardens, cafes, restaurants, bathing complexes and even natural pools in Doca do Cavacas. In that same place, a small tunnel will take you to Praia Formosa. This beach is the largest in Funchal, with an incredible view over the sea cliff of Cabo Girão. The walk continues along the beach until you reach Câmara de Lobos Bay. This walk is perfect to see the sunset. Finish off with a good plate of limpets and savour the moment.
2.Quinta do Santo da Serra
This farmhouse is ideal for a relaxed and romantic stroll. It's located only a few minutes away from the Hotel PortoBay Serra Golf, in Santo da Serra. Stroll through leafy trees and admire the infinite shades of green. Discover vast lawns, common trees of the Laurissilva Forest (like the til and the laurer), and even some animals like peacocks.
There are picnic tables on the lawns and a miniature golf course. Admire the flowers. Camellias and azaleas adorn the paths.
Head to the viewpoint and enjoy the unforgettable views of Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico.
3. Vereda dos Balcões
This walk is one of the most popular ones. Located in Ribeiro Frio, it's about 1.5 km long. Although the distance is short, the experience it offers is huge. It is one of the favourite areas of the Madeiran fauna, where you can admire birds like the finch. Walk along the levada, smell the wet soil, and hear the water running among the volcanic rocks.
The landscape is rural and simple, but it brings a sense of well-being. Feel the pleasure of breathing fresh air.
At the end of the walk, the Balcões Viewpoint awaits with panoramic sights of Faial and the highest peaks of the island. Rest and enjoy the views.
Photo : Francisco Correia
4. Levada das 25 Fontes
Are there 25 fountains or more? That’s what you’ll discover in this lagoon, surrounded by beautiful waterfalls. The tour lasts about 3 hours and takes you to the heart of the Laurissilva Forest. This path has the sound of water and the murmur of the forest. Admire the mountain shapes and the sea views lurking through the trees. Discover the Lagoon of 25 Fountains. It is the highlight of the walk. For the bravest, a dive is waiting. Refresh yourself and recover the energy you need to return.
5. Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
Ponta de São Lourenço has exceptional beauty. The local arid and golden landscape stands out from the lush green areas of the rest of the island. This area is the eastern most tip of Madeira, which is considered a nature reserve. This course lasts about 2 h 30 m and is ideal for contemplating on its volcanic origin. Birds accompany you during the walk and the sea is clearer than ever. When you arrive at "Cais do Sardinha,” take a plunge into the transparent waters of the Atlantic and feel the pleasure of this retreat.
Photo : Francisco Correia
Walk in Madeira !!
The blue sky blends with the sea and the green mountains. The shadows of the forest go with every step, every discovery. The sound of the water flows in the levadas and mixes with the chirping of the birds. It's the right melody to find peace.
The waves roll in the pebbles of Madeira's beaches and the rays of the sun melt into the sea, filling every walk with radiance.
We want you to discover all these and more !!
See you soon in Madeira !! ;)